BAYERN MUNICH’S clash with Hoffenheim was disrupted over hateful banners against controversial owner Dietmar Hopp.
The German champions were cruising to a 6-0 thrashing against the hosts when the officials were forced to call the game to a halt.
Bayern fans unveiled a banner against Hoffenheim owner Dietmar HoppCredit: AFP or licensors
Dietmarr Hopp, right, and Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge stand on the pitch after the full-time whistleCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Bayern fans had unveiled a banner that read “Dietmar Hopp remains a son of a whore.”
Former Hoffenheim star David Alaba and Bayern coach Hansi Flick, who used to work at their German opponents, ran over to the travelling supporters gesticulating for them to take it down.
It sparked a huge arguments in the stands as players from both teams stood in solidarity with Hopp.
After returning to the field, another banner with the same message went up in the stands causing further fury from players and owners of both clubs.
The players then emerged to continue playing but sensationally agreed NOT to score as they juggled the ball amongst each other on the pitch for the final 15 minutes.
A statement posted by Bayern read: “The sporting success of #TSGFCB is of secondary importance, however.
“Due to hateful banners targeting Dietmar Hopp in the FC Bayern fan block, the game was suspended. After returning to the pitch, the teams ran down the clock by passing the ball amongst themselves.”
Hopp is not well liked among fans of rivals teams because of his involvement financing the rise of Hoffenheim from the village leagues to the Bundesliga by investing around £350million.
He was granted an exemption from German football’s 50+1 ownership rule which is implemented to ensure the clubs remain in the hands of the supporters.
Billionaire Hopp stood alongside Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge on the touchline watching the players pass the ball among themselves.
At the end of the contest Bayern players clapped the Hoffenheim fans who applauded them back.
Borussia Dortmund fans have also previously shown their feeling towards Hopp with chants against the 79-year-old.
The players refused to play and instead aimlessly kicked the ball aboutCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Bayern’s players were pleading with their own fansCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
